Business-related texting entering the mainstream, O2 survey shows

8 Sep 200839 Views

Texting for business purposes is gaining momentum, with a study released today showing the numbers of owner managers using the text message in this way has increased from 29pc four years ago to almost half today.

The study conducted for O2 by TNS mrbi was carried out among 300 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) nationwide.

“Texting for business purposes has entered the mainstream, although it is still behind personal SMS usage trends,” said Billy D’Arcy (pictured), head of corporate and business sales, O2 Ireland.

“Often, it’s easier to reach a business person or get a response by text than by voice.”

The study suggests mixed attitudes towards blogging. Almost half of SME owner managers don’t know what a blog is. However, of those who are aware of blogging, a quarter claims to read them.

Just over one in 16 (6pc) of SME respondents has started a blog, while 5pc are personal bloggers, the study shows.

Surprisingly, quite a high percentage (57pc) of the SMEs in the study don’t have a website. D’Arcy commented that 47pc of the SME companies surveyed employ between one and three people so many of these smaller firms may not perceive a need for a website or feel that blogging is relevant to them.

O2 has launched an online Customer Forum, which allows its customers to discuss any aspect of their phone or broadband service with other O2 customers. It appears to be a popular feature with business users.

“We’re seeing more and more customers using the internet as a source to find solutions and seek advice. We have found that, so far, the main discussion topics are pricing, broadband and handsets. But customers debate everything from the best handset to accessing emails on the move, to the tariff offering the best value for money.”

By Sorcha Corcoran

Pictured: Billy D’arcy, head of corporate and business sales, O2 Ireland